It's the first time a Rhode Island player has scored 41 points since Ernie Calverley on February 5, 1943. Russell, a sophomore from nearby Imhotep Charter, was 12 of 24 from the field, including 7 of 13 from 3-point range, and hit 10 of 16 free throws to top his previous high of 26. It was also the most points scored by an Atlantic 10 Conference player this season.

Russell hit a 3 and his two free throws gave the Rams a four-point margin before the Hawks closed to 86-85 on Jared Bynum's 3 with two seconds left. Russell missed two free throws and Larry Kimble's 3 at the buzzer missed.

Russell's 3 with five seconds left in regulation tied it at 77 and forced overtime.